Keeping your dog safe at Halloween

We are all aware that this Halloween is going to be a little different given the restrictions involved with the Government’s Living with Covid plan. There will be no trick or treating or callers to the house and there will be less people out and about on the night itself, this means less worry that our dogs can slip out of an open front door and go missing.  However, the night itself may still be a frightful one for your madra as there will no doubt be just as many if not more bangers and fireworks.  All the at home festivities and treats will also still be enjoyed but it is important to remember even without parties and trick or treating, Halloween can be more than a little spooky for your dog if we don’t take some steps to keep them safe and happy at this eventful time of year. First things first, we know there will be no trick or treat bowl left out at the front door in your dog’s reach but remember any of your personal stash for the horror movie marathon, things like chocolate and chewy sweets that contain a sugar called xyltol is highly toxic and potentially lethal to dogs. If you suspect your dog has ingested any of the sweet stash, you should contact your vet ASAP. Remember, bangers and fireworks are terrifying for animals and usually start quite early in the month, there is a worry that it may be heightened this year as people can’t go out or go partying so may stay at home and mark the night with bangers and firecrackers instead. In any case or way you’re celebrating Halloween , dogs should be kept indoors and away from all the commotion and loud noises outside. Be sure they are secure and don’t run the risk of getting distressed and getting out. Please ensure they are chipped and wearing an ID tag  so can be immediately traced back to you. As hard as it can be, try not to constantly reassure your dog if they get stressed, it is human nature to want to reassure them, but the best thing you can do is carry on as normal so the dog doesn’t feel like they should be scared or stressed. It is much easier for a dog to comprehend the loud noises if they see their homelife and family carry on and act as normal. It will benefit them in the long run and help them feel more secure. So remain calm, turn the volume of the TV or radio up and this will help your dog see there is nothing to be frightened of. Many dogs also benefit from a makeshift den such as a crate with a blanket draped over it or a coffee table with a bed underneath it so they feel they have a quiet spot to retreat to should they feel distressed. If your pet finds bangers or fireworks very stressful, speak to your veterinarian about what you can do for them as there are other tips such a thunder shirts or calming medication that your vet can help you with. When the big night comes, be sure to keep your four legged family member somewhere safe and secure, perhaps in the sitting room with a family member with a closed door and a loud tv to help drown out the possible loud outdoor noises. Unfortunately, Halloween is a common time of year for pets to go missing with the extra loud noises and excitable dogs darting outside or getting spooked by bangers or fireworks on walks and going missing.  Many nervous rescue dogs, especially, find Halloween very scary as you can imagine and can benefit from a makeshift den or cosy, dark crate they can feel safe and secure in during festivities. As always, but especially at this time of year, be sure to have your pet chipped and registered with your up to date details so that should the worst happen, they can be traced straight back to you if the event that they go missing. Also, be sure your dog’s collar has an ID tag with your phone number/s, your vet’s name and phone number etc. so he can be quickly identified and you can contacted in case. As cute as they can be, be sure to not force a costume on your pet if you think it makes them uncomfortable. Although some pets don’t mind wearing costumes, others can find it stressful or restrictive and their comfort is number one priority. Perhaps, try a festive bandana or bow on their collar instead. If they are the type of dog that does not mind costumes, be sure they are fitted correctly and there are no dangly parts or restrictive parts that could get caught or cause injury to your pet. Be sure your dogs are kept away from lit candles or lanterns as waggy tails can be hazardous to a lit Jack O’Lantern. Remember to keep an eye out for animals in need at this time of year as many animals are found lost or straying or end up in dangerous situations at Halloween, if you see an animal in discomfort be sure to ring An Garda Siochana or the ISPCA cruelty helpline at 1890 515515 . These tips can all contribute to keeping your dog safe, happy and healthy at Halloween and keep it fun for everyone!  Have a safe, indoors one from all at Paws!